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Beginnings
In 2005, Jason started learning the basics of how to be a Drum Major from Sheryl Dostie, a top level amateur competitor. After her retirement from competition and the Mohawk Valley Frasers, Jason took her place until 2007 when he stepped aside and turned over the position to Jim Engle. In this time, Jason took lessons with Billy Jordan from Scotland and began to compete. Competition Moving quickly from amateur to the open grade, Jason won many competitions and honed his skills to the point where he could compete overseas. In 2011, Jason competed favorably at North Berwick and the World Pipe Band Championships and won Bridge of Allen. In 2013, Jason also competed at the 150th Victoria Highland Games and again at the World Championships. Jason has continued to successfully compete in the EUSPBA while watching his students move up through the ranks and become open competitors themselves. Bands Since learning the skills of being a Drum Major, Jason always been a Drum Major with the Mohawk Valley Frasers at some highland games and performances where he works with Jim Engle to determine what is best for the band. In 2012, Jason joined the New York Metro Pipe Band out of New York City as their Drum Major where he led the band for several events before leaving in 2015. Jason continues to Drum Major with the Nashville Pipes and Drums from Nashville, TN. Performances With the Mohawk Valley Frasers, Jason frequently performs at different venues with the band. Being a member of New York Metro, Jason performed at the Pipes of Peace concert in Glasgow, Scotland in 2103. Also in 2013, Jason had the pleasure of being the first performing North American in the International Drum Major Display Team, an accomplishment that was only matched by his students in 2018. Some Notable Accomplishments North American Champion, 2010, 2012 East Coast (EUSPBA) Champion Supreme 2010-2019, 2021 Celtic Classic Invitational Champion, 2009-2015, 2017-2019 Bridge of Allan Highland Games, 2011 New York State Champion, 2009-2019 New England Champion, 2012-2017, 2019 Individual Instruction Whether if it’s the competition Drum Major or the Drum Major who wants to better their skills in front of their band, Jason offers instruction on many levels to fit your needs and wishes. Following the standards set by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association in addition to other manuals and experience, Jason works with the student to create an individualized course of study encompassing many aspects of being a Scottish Drum Major, including marching, deportment, dress and flourishing on many levels and more. Lessons times and locations are very flexible. Workshops Jason also offers instruction Drum Major workshops and drill and deportment workshops for pipe bands in the northeast United States and Ontario. |